Frequently Asked Questions
A LITTLE MORE INFORMATION
Resale, Consignment, Thrift, and the Secondhand Industry
What is the difference between resale, consignment, and nonprofit thrift stores?
The term resale is often used broadly to describe stores that sell pre-owned or secondhand goods. Within the industry, there are important distinctions based on how inventory is acquired and how revenue is generated.
A resale store typically purchases merchandise outright from individuals or other sources and then resells those items at a set price determined by the store.
A consignment store sells items on behalf of individual owners. The store and the item owner agree on pricing and terms in advance, and the owner receives a percentage of the sale price only if the item sells. Commission structures and selling periods vary widely by store, region, and category.
A nonprofit thrift store is operated by a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Inventory is most often obtained through donations, though some nonprofit shops also use consignment or hybrid models. Revenue generated supports charitable missions ranging from social services to education, healthcare, or community programs. These stores are commonly referred to as thrift stores.
While all consignment and thrift shops are part of the broader resale economy, not all resale stores operate on a consignment or nonprofit basis.
How fast is the resale and secondhand industry growing?
Independent industry research consistently shows that resale and secondhand retail is one of the fastest growing segments of the broader retail market. Growth is driven by a combination of consumer demand, new store openings, online expansion, and increased participation across multiple generations. Apparel resale, in particular, has experienced sustained double-digit growth in recent years, with strong projections continuing through the end of the decade.
Unlike traditional retail, secondhand growth reflects both new consumer adoption and repeat participation, as shoppers increasingly return to resale as a primary shopping channel rather than an occasional alternative.
Why has resale become so popular?
Several forces are driving the continued growth and popularity of resale.
Value remains a major factor. Secondhand allows consumers to purchase recognizable brands and quality goods at a fraction of original retail prices, which is especially appealing during periods of economic uncertainty or rising costs of living.
Sustainability is another long-term driver. Many consumers prefer to reuse and recycle goods rather than contribute to landfill waste, particularly in categories such as apparel, home goods, and accessories.
Convenience and expertise also matter. Selling items through resale or consignment allows individuals to recoup value without the time, effort, or risk involved in hosting yard sales or managing online listings. Professional pricing, merchandising, and marketing often result in better outcomes for sellers.
Finally, resale offers an experience that traditional retail often cannot. Shoppers are drawn to the discovery, individuality, and “treasure hunt” aspect of secondhand shopping, where inventory is constantly changing and unique finds are common.
Is resale a multi-generational shopping experience?
Yes. One of the defining characteristics of today’s resale industry is its broad appeal across generations.
Younger shoppers, particularly Gen Z and younger Millennials, often approach resale with a secondhand-first mindset. Comfortable mixing resale with new retail, these generations values sustainability, individuality, and affordability.
Millennials frequently use resale to access higher quality brands while managing budgets shaped by student debt, housing costs, and family expenses. For many, resale aligns with both financial priorities and environmental values.
Gen X and Baby Boomers have long been familiar with thrift and resale, continuing to shop secondhand for value, practicality, and community impact. Many also participate as consignors, downsizers, or donors as life stages change.
Resale is one of the few retail environments where multiple generations shop simultaneously, often for different reasons, within the same stores.
Which segments of resale are growing the fastest?
Apparel resale remains the most closely tracked and rapidly expanding segment, particularly in women’s, specialty, and branded categories.
Furniture and home goods resale has also seen strong growth, driven by housing transitions, downsizing, relocation, and the rising cost of new furniture. Specialty categories such as home décor, men’s clothing, plus-size apparel, teens’ resale, sporting goods, and electronics continue to expand as stores refine their focus and inventory mix.
How have online marketplaces affected resale stores?
Online resale platforms have helped normalize secondhand shopping and expand consumer awareness. Rather than replacing brick-and-mortar resale, online marketplaces often complement physical stores.
Many consumers prefer to shop locally when fit, condition, and quality matter, particularly for clothing, furniture, and home goods. Physical stores allow shoppers to see, touch, and try items before purchasing, which remains a key advantage in resale.
Digital discovery increasingly drives in-store visits, creating a blended online-to-offline resale experience.
How has the public image of resale changed?
The image of resale has shifted dramatically over the past few decades. What was once stereotyped as cluttered or outdated is now widely recognized as curated, professional, and customer focused.
Modern resale and thrift stores emphasize clean, organized environments, thoughtful merchandising, and welcoming customer experiences. Many stores rival traditional retail in presentation while offering greater variety and value.
Perhaps the most significant change is cultural. Shoppers today are open and often proud to shop secondhand. Finding a great deal, reducing waste, and discovering unique items are points of pride rather than something to hide.
What does the future of resale look like?
The resale industry is expected to continue growing and professionalizing. Analysts project increased integration of online tools, expanded education and standards, and continued diversification of product categories.
As consumers prioritize value, sustainability, and experiences over excess consumption, resale is positioned to remain a durable and essential segment of the retail economy rather than a temporary trend.